WILMINGTON, Del. – As a part of ongoing efforts to honor Women’s History Month, the Delaware Department of Human Resources (DHR), in partnership with Delaware State University’s Division of Administrative Services and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council, hosted a panel discussion yesterday focused on workforce development, inclusive policies, and the vital role women play in leadership.

Bringing together the current and former Delaware Secretaries of Labor, the interactive discussion explored strategies to strengthen talent pipelines, expand economic opportunities, and advance workplace equity. The panelists included:

• LaKresha Moultrie, Esq. Delaware Department of Labor Secretary
• Dr. Patrice Gilliam, Interim Provost & Chief Academic Officer, Delaware State University
• Karryl Hubbard, Esq., Director of Constituent Services, U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester.
• Moderator: Chonnie Blair, Founder & Principal Consultant of Chinwe Solutions.

Delaware’s U.S. Senator Lisa Blunt Rochester, also a former Delaware Department of Labor Secretary, provided recorded remarks highlighting the importance of women in leadership and their contributions to the workforce and communities.

The panelists shared their perspectives on navigating leadership challenges, fostering public-private partnerships, and shaping policies that create equitable opportunities for Delaware’s workforce. They also highlighted the skills needed for the future job market, strategies for retaining top talent, and the importance of addressing barriers to workforce participation.

“We are grateful for the insights shared by our panelists today,” said Yvonne Anders Gordon, Delaware Department of Human Resources Secretary. “Their leadership and experiences leading one of Delaware’s most critical state agencies provided valuable guidance for shaping an equitable future for our workforce.”

“This event underscored our commitment to fostering inclusive policies and recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in leadership. Delaware State University, along with our partnering agencies, are paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for Delaware’s workforce and we want to continue to have these important conversations,” said Pamela Mosley Gresham and Francine Edwards, co-chairs of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council at Delaware State University.

The dialogue underscored the need for organizations to engage youth early through internships and apprenticeships in alignment with Governor Meyer’s Executive Order #1, which prioritizes expanding youth apprenticeships and earn-and-learn opportunities. Panelists also explored strategies for supporting small businesses, balancing economic growth with worker protections, and preparing Delaware for emerging industries like green energy and artificial intelligence.

Additional event partners included:

• ACLU of Delaware
• Delaware Historical Society – Mitchell Center for African American Heritage
• Delaware River & Bay Authority
• Delaware Office of Women’s Advancement & Advocacy
• Delaware Department of Labor Local Diversity Council

Event photos are available on DHR’s Flickr page.

DHR remains committed to advancing a workplace culture that embraces diverse perspectives, ensures fair treatment, and promotes an environment where all employees feel valued and empowered.

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